Chemistry, A.S.
Discover What Everything Is Made Of
If you're fascinated by the building blocks of the universe—from molecules to materials—the Chemistry A.S. degree offers a dynamic start to your scientific journey. This STEM program prepares you to transfer into a bachelor’s program in chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacy, or other science-related fields.
With a strong foundation in general, organic, and analytical chemistry, as well as math, physics, and biology, you'll gain the skills to solve real-world problems and pursue a wide range of exciting career paths.
Transfer with Confidence
Your Degree = Junior Standing at a PASSHE University
Complete this associate degree and transfer seamlessly into a bachelor’s program at
any Pennsylvania State System (PASSHE) university. Thanks to statewide Program-to-Program
(P2P) agreements, you’ll enter with junior-level standing—saving time and money.
What You'll Learn
- Understand and apply core chemical principles and lab techniques
- Use scientific methods to conduct experiments and present findings
- Develop technical writing and oral communication skills
- Master chemical instrumentation and research tools
- Prepare to transfer into a four-year chemistry or science program
Program Requirements
The Chemistry, A.S. degree includes a minimum of 63 credits and can be completed in four semesters of full-time study. Students should consult program requirements at thier intended transfer institution.
Visit the academic catalog for a full list of required courses by semester:
Chemistry, A.S. - Duquesne Pharm.D. Track
Interested in becoming a pharmacist?
BC3 offers a specialized Chemistry A.S. degree track for students who intend to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) from Duquesne University.
This track follows a prescribed sequence of courses aligned with Duquesne’s School of Pharmacy admission requirements. The Chemistry–Duquesne Track associate degree differs from the standard Chemistry A.S. in required courses and total credits.
Students who complete the Chemistry–Duquesne Track A.S. degree and are admitted to Duquesne’s School of Pharmacy will complete:
- 2 years at BC3 (associate degree)
- 4 additional years at Duquesne University
- Leading to a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
Duquesne will admit up to two BC3 students per academic year who meet the admission criteria listed below. At Duquesne’s discretion, more than two students may be admitted in a given year based on space availability.
This pathway includes specific course, credit, GPA, and admission requirements established in partnership with Duquesne University.
Students planning to pursue this pathway should review the curriculum planner, which outlines:
- Required courses and sequencing
- Total credits for the Chemistry–Duquesne Track, A.S.
- Admission criteria for Duquesne’s School of Pharmacy
- Planning guidance to remain eligible for transfer
Because this pathway is highly structured, students are strongly encouraged to meet regularly with a BC3 academic advisor to stay on track.
Note: Students interested in pharmacy must follow this designated track. The standard Chemistry A.S. does not meet the admission requirements for Duquesne’s Pharm.D. program.
Where This Degree Can Take You
This program prepares you to transfer into a four-year chemistry or science program—and sets the stage for careers in laboratory science, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, education, and beyond.
With additional education, students following this path may pursue careers as:
- Chemist or chemical technician
- Pharmacist or pharmaceutical researcher
- Biochemist or materials scientist
- Lab analyst or quality control technician
- Environmental or forensic scientist
- Pharmaceutical and biotech companies
- Research laboratories and universities
- Environmental or forensic agencies
- Hospitals and clinical labs
- Chemical and materials manufacturers
Apply to BC3 Today
Start Your Journey as a Pioneer